The deadly military strikes initiated by US President Donald Trump’s administration on alleged drug trafficking boats have not reduced the amount of cocaine entering the United States, The Washington Post reported with reference to an assessment by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). DEA analysts say that "the strikes that began last September showed that they had disrupted smuggling routes, causing increases in cocaine prices and drug-related violence." According to the publication, "DEA analysis of confiscated cocaine showed high levels of purity," which "suggests supply remains consistent," as "dealers do not need to dilute the drug to stretch inventory." Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth announced the launch of Operation Southern Spear to combat drug cartels last November. In late May, The New York Times reported that the death toll from US strikes on alleged drug cartel vessels has exceeded 200 people.